AT&T: HSPA 7.2Mbps Upgrade Starts This Year

posted May 27, 2009, 9:52 AM by Eric M. Zeman

Today AT&T announced that it will begin upgrading its existing 3.6Mbps 3G network to 7.2Mbps High-Speed Packet Access technology later this year, with a completion date expected in 2011. In addition, AT&T is going to double the amount of 850MHz spectrum dedicated to its 3G network in "most metropolitan areas," which should improve network capacity and building penetration. Other steps AT&T is taking include deploying 2,100 more cell sites across the U.S., adding a fiber backbone to many of its cell sites to improve bandwidth, as well as the addition of microcells and femotcells in some areas for better in-building coverage. AT&T said it is going to add another 20 metropolitan areas to the 350 cities it already covers with 3G signal. Additionally, AT&T said that qualifying smartphone and 3G LaptopConnect plans will have access to its 20,000 Wi-Fi hot spots around the U.S., and will be able to switch from 3G to Wi-Fi seamlessly. AT&T will roll out devices capable of utilizing the 7.2Mbps HSPA network later this year. Last, AT&T said it plans to begin LTE trials in 2010, with deployment beginning in 2011.

more info at AT&T »

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